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Hoarding is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It goes beyond the simple act of collecting items and can severely impact one’s quality of life. Understanding the different stages of hoarding can help individuals recognize the signs early on and seek appropriate help.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the five stages of hoarding, from minimal clutter to extreme clutter, and discuss the signs and ways to address them at each stage.
Key Takeaways
- Hoarding is the process of excessive item accumulation and difficulty discarding, which is linked to anxiety and depression.
- Stages of Hoarding range from minimal clutter to extreme clutter, each with increasing risks.
- Stage 1 is mild clutter, which is easy to manage with regular decluttering.
- Stage 2 is noticeable clutter, avoiding visitors, and starting a decluttering routine.
- Stage 3 is significant clutter, obstructed spaces, poor hygiene, and seeking professional help.
- Stage 4 is severe clutter, health hazards, and the need for professional intervention.
- Stage 5 is an extremely cluttered, uninhabitable home that requires comprehensive support.
What is Hoarding?
Hoarding is a mental disorder in which a person has the habit of excessively accumulating items and faces difficulty in discarding possessions. It is associated with depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma. Hoarders are likely to hide this behavior from others.
The symptoms may include – finding it very challenging to part ways from possessions, feelings of distress and paranoia while discarding them, and accumulating possessions to such an extent that clutter living areas.
The 5 Stages of Hoarding
There are a total of 5 stages of hoarding, ranging from minimal to extreme. Different levels of hoarding determine the extent of the problem. These hoarding stages are explained below –
Stage 1: Minimal Clutter
Level 1 hoarding is called the least severe one with mild clutter. It means mild hoarding, but items may be disorganized. Some signs of level 1 hoarding are – light clutters, all the spaces like staircases and doorways being easily accessible, some procrastination in cleaning and organizing the items, and sentimental value attached to the things that make it hard to discard them. The situation is under control here, and you can address it effectively.
How to address it?
- Start by making small changes. For instance – decide to declutter one drawer today or a small area to keep your anxiety under control.
- Ask yourself: Do I really love and need this item? It helps you in mindful decision-making.
- Consult a therapist if you find doing this difficult.
Stage 2: Noticeable Clutter
As the hoarder reaches level 2, they begin to avoid the visitors due to embarrassment regarding their hoarded items. Clutter starts to increase in the living areas. You tend to notice at least one blocked exit. You find it difficult to throw things even if they are broken. And anxiety and avoidance behaviors tend to become more apparent.
How do we address it?
- Develop a decluttering schedule. Even 10-15 minutes a day would be enough.
- Attach memories with the people and in your heart, and not in the objects.
- Take the help of the counselor to address any underlying fears.
Stage 3: Significant Clutter
Now comes the level 3 hoarding. Level 3 hoarders have poor personal hygiene. The clutter goes to an extent blocking access to parts of the home, accumulation of excessive dust and dirty clothing, noticeable odors, social isolation, visible rodent or spider infestation, and extremely soiled flooring, among others.
How to address it?
- First, recognize and accept there is a problem, and it’s not just a physical one but also an emotional one.
- Start by decluttering a small area instead of an entire home.
- Make accountability partners, as it will make decluttering less overwhelming.
Stage 4: Severe Clutter with Risks
Level 4 is a severe level of hoarding. At this level, individuals can go weeks without bathing and suffer from severe mental health crises. Some signs include structural damage to the home, noticeable mold and mildew, pest infestations, excessive accumulation of items – even expired or broken items, and sewage issues.
How to address it?
- In level 4, it is a must to consult a mental health professional.
- Gentle and compassionate support.
- Reward your small victories rather than focusing on perfection to reduce the feelings of helplessness.
Stage 5: Extreme Clutter
Coming to the 5th level of hoarding is defined by extreme clutter, fire hazards, and even accumulated human feces. This stage makes it difficult for the individual to live in their own home. Symbols of level 5 hoarding include broken or crumbling walls, no running water or electricity, clutter on every surface, most spaces in the home being inaccessible, denial or refusal of help, and severe structural damage to the home. Individuals suffering from this level of hoarding suffer extreme distress, shame, and cognitive impairment.
How to address it?
- A team of supportive individuals, including therapists, family members, and social workers, is needed.
- Professional intervention.
- Patience and understanding to address the issues of the individual.
Seek For Professional Help
Addressing hoarding disorder, especially in its advanced stages, necessitates professional intervention. That’s where hoarding cleanup services can come to your rescue.
Space City Sanitizers offers compassionate hoarding cleanup services designed to restore safe living environments while respecting the individual’s dignity. Our team is trained to handle the complexities of hoarding situations, providing thorough cleaning, sanitation, and, when necessary, structural repairs. Contact Space City Sanitizers for more information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding hoarding and its stages is crucial for early intervention and effective management. Hoarding is not just about clutter; it’s a mental disorder intertwined with emotional struggles like anxiety, depression, and trauma. Recognizing the signs at each stage—from minimal to extreme clutter—can pave the way for timely support and professional help.
